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Where to Stay in Launceston

Where to Stay in Launceston

Launceston Tasmania, Australia Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Diverse Lodging Choices

  • Hostels

    These feature budget-friendly dorms and private rooms. Hostels are popular with backpackers and solo travelers; they feature communal spaces for social interaction.

  • Motels

    Abundant across the city and its outskirts, motels present comfortable, no-frills stays. They often include parking, useful for self-drivers.

  • Hotels

    These range from mid-range chains to boutique luxury properties, often located in the city center or Seaport precinct. They feature various amenities and services.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) and Guesthouses

    Often found in beautifully restored heritage homes, these present personalized service and usually include breakfast. They offer a charming, local experience.

Specialized Lodging

  • Serviced Apartments

    Ideal for longer stays or families, serviced apartments feature self-catering facilities, like kitchenettes or full kitchens, and more space than standard hotel rooms.

  • Luxury Lodges

    A few high-end options present more exclusive experiences, sometimes situated just outside the immediate city center in scenic locations.

  • Heritage Listed Properties

    Many B&Bs and boutique hotels occupy beautifully restored Victorian and Georgian buildings.

  • Farm Stays

    Available in the wider Tamar Valley region, these properties present rural experiences; guests connect with local agriculture and nature.

Neighborhood Guide

Choosing the right neighborhood can shape your Launceston experience. Each area is a distinct character.

CBD Central Business District

Benefits
  • Central location
  • Easy walking access to shops, restaurants, Seaport, City Park
  • Good public transport links
Considerations
  • Quieter at night after shops close
  • Parking can be expensive

Seaport Precinct

Benefits
  • Modern waterfront development
  • Variety of restaurants and cafes
  • Close to river cruises and Cataract Gorge
Considerations
  • Can be pricier for accommodation and dining

Inveresk/Museum Mile

Benefits
  • Cultural hub with unique architecture
  • Home to QVMAG and University of Tasmania campus
  • Generally quieter than the CBD
Considerations
  • Slightly longer walk from city center

Considerations for Your Stay

Safety & Proximity

All listed areas generally hold safety. The CBD and Seaport present the best walking access to attractions and transport. Outer suburbs require more transport, typically a car or bus.

Noise Levels & Ambiance

The CBD and Seaport experience some night noise from restaurants and bars. Heritage areas and outer suburbs are generally quieter, presenting a more peaceful stay.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation booking with these strategies to secure your preferred stay.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Dec-Feb) & School Holidays: Book 3-6 months in advance. Demand is high, and prices increase.
  • Shoulder Seasons (Mar-May & Sep-Nov): Book 1-3 months in advance. You find more availability and potentially better deals.
  • Low Season (Jun-Aug): Book 2-4 weeks in advance. Walk-in availability at some motels is possible, but booking remains advisable.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Global Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia list a wide range of properties.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo are popular for self-catering options. TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.
  • Direct Booking: Many local B&Bs and boutique hotels feature their best rates when you book directly through their websites. Check for special promotions.
  • Local Tourism Websites: Discover Tasmania and Tourism Northern Tasmania websites list accommodation providers.

Important Considerations

Deposit & Cancellation Policies
  • These vary by property and booking platform.
  • Always review specific terms before confirming.
  • Many properties feature free cancellation up to a certain point (e.g., 24-72 hours before arrival).
  • Some might include a deposit, especially for longer stays.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are significantly higher in summer, during major festivals, and Australian school holidays.
  • The lowest prices typically occur in winter (June-August), presenting a good value proposition for budget travelers.
  • Negotiation is uncommon for walk-in rates; fixed pricing is standard in Australia.

Affiliate Partner Hotels

IHG Hotels

Book your stay at IHG Hotels for global comfort.

Booking.com

Find numerous options at Booking.com.

Agoda

Explore Asian-focused deals at Agoda.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some types of places to stay, with examples, to help you make a choice.

Diverse Lodging

Hostel: Arthouse Hostel Launceston

Central location, shared dorms, private rooms, communal kitchen, social atmosphere.

Budget Motel: Batman Fawkner Inn

Historic building, central, basic rooms, sometimes shared facilities or small ensuites.

  • Budget-Mid level
  • No-frills stay
  • Historic charm

Premium Stays

Mid-Range Hotel: Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston

Overlooking City Park, central, modern rooms, restaurant, bar, good facilities.

  • Mid-Range level
  • Central location
  • Full facilities
Serviced Apartments: Quest Launceston

Central, self-contained apartments, kitchenette/kitchen, laundry facilities.

  • Mid-Range level
  • Family-friendly
  • Home-like amenities

Traveler Specific

  • Family-friendly Options

    Quest Launceston or other serviced apartments feature space and kitchen facilities, simplifying family meals. Big4 Launceston Holiday Park features cabins and caravan sites with playgrounds and amenities, suitable for families.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Arthouse Hostel has social opportunities for meeting other travelers. Central hotels and motels feature easy access to attractions and a sense of security for solo guests.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Serviced apartments, like Quest or Peppers Seaport, suit longer visits, featuring home-like amenities. Vacation rentals also present more space and amenities for extended stays.

Heritage Properties

  • Batman Fawkner Inn

    One of Launceston's oldest hotels, presenting a stay with a sense of history.

  • Stillwater Seven

    Housed in a historic 1830s flour mill, it has an unique blend of heritage and luxury.

  • Charming B&Bs

    Many charming B&Bs in heritage homes throughout the city present a glimpse into Launceston's past.

Additional Considerations

Reducing Waste

Travel size toiletries bottles can assist in waste reduction.

Find Travel-Size Bottles
Packing Light

Light packing also minimizes environmental impact.

Browse Light Packing Gear

Vacation Rentals

Airbnb

Popular for a wide selection of houses, apartments, and rooms for rent across neighborhoods.

Stayz

Another popular platform for self-catering options, suitable for groups or longer visits.

Vrbo

A vacation rental booking site for various property types.